XN000022-1995-03-08 — Page 63

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Reply:

Mr President :

(a)

(b)

There is no evidence to suggest that 'ICE' (Methylamphetamine) has become a new trend among drug abusers. The majority of the 'ICE' seized in 1994 were destined for neighbouring countries in South East Asia.

Seizures of 'ICE' by the Police and the Customs and Excise Department for the past three years are -

(c)

Police

Customs

1992

1993

1994

18.6 kg

1.8 kg

123 kg

0.18 kg

0.01 kg

0.001 kg

Separate figures on the number of persons reported to be abusing 'ICE' are not available as 'ICE' is grouped together with other amphetamines for statistical purposes. The numbers of persons reported to be abusing amphetamines over the past three years are -

1992

1993

1994

Reported persons aged under 21 abusing amphetamines

18

33

28

(% of reported persons under 21)

(1.2%)

(1.3%)

(0.8%)

Reported persons aged 21 and abusing amphetamines

26

44

50 above

(% of reported persons aged 21 and above)

(0.2%)

(0.3%) (0.4%)

The number of abusers of amphetamines (with which 'ICE' is classified) has remained small.